From 1 July 2016, a simple framework will be introduced for the skilled and temporary activity visa programmes.

This Budget measure is subject to the passage of legislation.

Description of the measure

Currently there are 25 types of temporary, provisional and permanent skilled visas. This will be reduced to 9 new types of visas.

Eligibility for welfare payments and Medicare will not change. Migrants who are granted one of the new permanent visas will have access to payments as long as they meet individual payment and residency requirements.

Questions and answers

Who is affected by this measure

People entering Australia through the skilled migration programme. This includes migrants who enter on permanent visas as well as temporary skilled visa applicants.